• Maymont Nature Center
  • Maymont Nature Center
  • Maymont Nature Center
  • Maymont Nature Center
Maymont Nature Center
Maymont Foundation
Richmond, Virginia

Challenged to transform a handsome but aging nature center into a dynamic new family-focused attraction, the Maymont Foundation turned to Main Street Design. We worked with our client to develop a concept that retains the gallery's sequence of large-volume freshwater aquarium tanks but places them within an entirely new experience framework. The result is Run of the River: The James River Discovery Experience.

A celebration of Virginia's longest river, which bisects downtown Richmond, the project invites guests on a journey from its Appalachian Mountains headwaters to the Chesapeake Bay. Along the way young explorers encounter the creatures and habitats of the James in a vibrant mix of live animal exhibits, hands-on and whole body interpretive play opportunities, and interactive multimedia programs. Features include a large-format motion-responsive video wall that takes visitors beneath the surface of the river, and a custom 30' tall climbing structure themed to showcase the microbiology of a single drop of water. Stylized constructed “boulders” beneath the climber evoke the complex stream bottom environment while forming interpretive alcoves and display surfaces for smaller-scale focus exhibits.

First two photos Courtesy of Luckey LLC. 

 

 

 

 

Project Partners

Richard Lewis Media Group
audiovisual and multimedia
Luckey LLC
climbing structure
SMBW
architecture
Building Four Fabrication
exhibit fabrication
Shea Willis Consulting
owner’s representative